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Just FYI, and it probably doesn't apply here as water would likely be changed often enough, but I have a rowing machine that has a water-filled drum to create resistance, and in the instructions they said not to use distilled water because the additives used in city water inhibit bacterial and algae growth. Distilled water is actually a better environment for algae growth. I have had the same water in the drum for 2.5 years and there it is as clean as when I put it in.

Just made me think of it.

k.

There is a cult of ignorance in the United States...nurtured by the false notion that democracy means that “my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge.” -- Isaac Asimov

...the additives used in city water inhibit bacterial and algae growth...I have had the same water in the drum for 2.5 years and there it is as clean as when I put it in...

Somehow, I find this deeply disturbing. About the distilled water, I wasn't using it for permasoaking. I got more concerned about mineral deposits when I started doing lots of soaking and drying cycles. That's when I thought distilled water would be good. If you are permasoaking, it wouldn't matter because you wouldn't get mineral build-up.

Yeah. I started doing that more often once I realized it was starting to feel slimy.

Feels pretty gross when it gets like that! I keep a Scotchbrite sponge right by my sink and use the rough side to get any 'slime' off the stones if necessary. I keep my Bester in a pretty shallow tub, so its easy to dump out the water and refill each time I use it, not to mention giving a quick wipe to the sides of the container.

My bester 1200...is it much better to permasoak it? Typically I just soak it for awhile before I use it, then dry and wrap it in paper towel before I put it away. Which is better or is it just a convenience thing?

My bester 1200...is it much better to permasoak it? Typically I just soak it for awhile before I use it, then dry and wrap it in paper towel before I put it away. Which is better or is it just a convenience thing?

Mine has been in water constantly for the last 1.5 years and I think it performs better than ever now, plus its more convenient. Give it a try!